That will not, however, signal the end of Louis van Gaal's summer spending, according to the Daily Express.

Oh no. It was reported by The Sun earlier this week that United had given up hope of being able to afford Cristiano Ronaldo, but now the Express claims they are prepared to pay a new world-record fee to bring Gareth Bale back to the Premier League.

Van Gaal is desperate to make a 'galactico' signing, according to the newspaper, and a move for Bale is being backed by United's new kit suppliers, adidas, who apparently believe having the Welshman at Old Trafford 'is the perfect fit in terms of marketing'.

United will push for Bale right up until the transfer deadline, the Express adds, claiming they will use Real's determination to sign David de Gea to their advantage.

CITY TO RIVAL SPURS FOR BERAHINO

Saido Berahino has been strongly linked with a move to Tottenham this summer, with Newcastle also reported to be interested in the West Brom forward, but the two clubs are set to be gazumped by Manchester City, according to the Sunday People.

The Blues are said to have made an enquiry earlier this week, asking to be kept informed of any rival interest, and the Baggies' £25million valuation of the 21-year-old may put City in pole position to seal a deal.

Everton defender John Stones, however, is no longer a target, the newspaper adds.

SUNDERLAND STEP UP TRANSFER BUSINESS

Sunderland are confident of completing a deal to sign both Rubin Kazan midfielder Yann M'Vila and QPR's Leroy Fer on season-long loans deal by Tuesday, according to the Sun on Sunday.

Fer has suffered back-to-back relegations from the Premier League with Norwich and QPR, but Sunderland are hoping the Dutchman's arrival will help prevent another season of struggle at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats are also set to make an improved £15million offer for Fenerbahce frontman Moussa Sow, according to the Sunday Mirror, after having a £12million bid rejected by the Turkish club.

The same newspaper claims they have been offered the chance to sign Corinthians forward Alexandre Pato, but while one article claims they have opened talks, another suggests they have shelved their plans to sign the 25-year-old in order to focus on Sow.

AND THE REST

- Manchester City are prepared to put their bid to sign Paul Pogba on ice until the January transfer window (Daily Star Sunday)

- Ashley Young has been offered a new three-year contract by Manchester United - with the option of a further year (Daily Star Sunday)

- Hull boss Steve Bruce is waiting to see if Manchester United will release Paddy McNair on loan (Sunday Mirror)

- West Ham are ready to rival Newcastle in the race to sign Charlie Austin as they look to bolster their depleted forward line (Mail on Sunday)